Aging as a result of the implementation of the phenoptosis program

There are two main points of view on the driving force of aging: destructive action of free radicals generated by mitochondria and implementation of the genetic program. The free-radical theory dominating now asserts that there are no specific genes of aging, as the evolutionary theory proves inability of natural selection to differentiate separate individuals by longevity. The concept of programmed aging, named phenoptosis, has no wide recognition, since it contradicts postulates of the evolutionary theory of aging and, moreover, has no mechanism for the implementation of the program. The present review shows the following: (1) contrary to the statement of the evolutionary theory of aging, the species-specific longevity is controlled by selection but the interpopulation one rather than individual; hence, there are specific genes of aging; (2) primarily programmed process causing aging is a decrease in the bioenergetics level; and (3) this causes age-related increase of the level of free radicals. Hence, the free-radical theory should be incorporated into the theory of programmed aging as one of the components. The key diagram of the mechanism of programmed aging is presented.